University of Edinburgh Principal Sir Peter Mathieson could earn more than half a million pounds before leaving his post, as hundreds of staff face potential redundancy amid a £140 million savings drive.
Professor Mathieson, who once claimed he did not know his own £421,667 salary, announced earlier this year that he would not seek a third term when his current contract expires in early 2028. His decision to remain in the job until then could see him collect around £545,280 before tax in salary by the end of January 2028.
Financial crisis and job loss fears
His planned departure comes as the university grapples with a financial crisis. Earlier this month, the University and College Union (UCU) claimed the university had repeatedly failed to rule out compulsory redundancies, and 1,800 jobs could be lost as a result of the cuts.
The UCU’s Edinburgh branch said Mathieson’s tenure had been “marked by mismanagement”. Staff facing the axe have criticised Mathieson, accusing him of remaining in post while workers face an uncertain future.
One staff member said: “It’s a bit rich that Peter Mathieson will step down but only after he has collected thousands more in pay, considering the state of the institution he has presided over. Meanwhile, worried staff are facing the real prospect of losing their jobs imminently while he continues in his role for two more years.”
UCU criticism and political response
The UCU’s Edinburgh branch said: “Peter Mathieson recently told UCU representatives that staff at Edinburgh need a ‘reality check’. His reality is that of somebody who has become fabulously rich and lived in lavish conditions on University money. Ours is that of working people and ordinary students who have watched with horror as he took the University on an investment spending binge, then turned around and said we could not afford our expenses without slashing staff and learning conditions.”
In September, it was reported that staff criticised Mathieson over what is claimed to be a £10,000 bill to relocate his cat and dog.
Meghan Gallacher, Tory Education spokeswoman, said: “The fact that Edinburgh University’s top boss will continue to take home such eye-watering sums will stick in the throat of staff and students. At a time when they are facing huge job losses and major savings, he should be leading by example. Peter Mathieson must explain his justification for taking so much money during his time at the University against a backdrop of a financial crisis.”
Political and institutional response
Scottish Labour education spokesperson Katherine Sangster said: “Universities are facing severe financial pressures, and the prospect of job losses will bring a great deal of uncertainty and concern for hardworking staff. It is galling for the workforce that they are experiencing this instability while Peter Mathieson could pick up a large payout. While it is vitally important that the Scottish Government provides sufficient resource for our universities to operate, institutions must ensure jobs are protected wherever possible.”
The University of Edinburgh declined to comment.
